Brenda M. Atencio, born and raised in Ohkay Owingeh (Village of the Strong People) in New Mexico, holds a Master’s degree in legal studies (Indigenous Peoples Law) from the University of Oklahoma as well as an Associates and Bachelor of arts degrees in business management from Northern New Mexico College. Prior to joining the institute, her professional experience stemmed from working in various capacities as a Youth Affairs Prevention Specialist, as a New Mexico state-licensed foster parent, transportation planner and director, court advocate and liaison, to more recently serving as the realty director at the Pueblo of Tesuque. She is also known as the multi-award-winning Hip Hop, Pop, R&B Artist “G Precious,” from which she brings years of experience in community outreach services that include motivational and  keynote speaking roles that addressed bullying, education, health and wellness, drugs, alcohol, suicide, depression, teen pregnancy, diabetes, dementia, and Alzheimer’s. As the institute’s outreach coordinator, she hopes to continue bettering herself through continued education and work experience while advocating, educating, and serving people of all communities as well as providing guidance to the institute via diverse initiatives.